Kids Toy Storage Ideas

toy storage by size

Let’s start small. The easiest way to store and organize toys are in small-sized bins and baskets, which keep them easily accessible and minimize the dreaded digging and dumping that happens with larger bins. Smaller bins and baskets can also easily be pulled out onto the floor for younger kids or placed on a table top for older ones. We love the idea of personalized ones like our Cotton Storage Basket–either with their name or their contents (think: cars, dolls, blocks, etc.)

We’re getting larger. Large toy storage ideas don’t have to be tricky. Carmen, our Crate & Kids Design Lead, loves using a bookcase like the Hampshire Tall Bookcase. “Larger items and toys look great tucked into it. The shelves are wider and easy-glide deep drawers make hiding clutter even easier.” Along with bookcases, think of other hidden storage spots like underbed storage drawers.

For the largest of toys, like dollhouses or activity centers, that can’t really be put away, it’s best to designate a spot where it belongs when it is not in play. This could be a corner of a room or spot in a closet. This is also why we love a toy that is not only fun to play with but designed beautifully–so that it looks great in the room!

storage ideas by toy type

Need stuffed animal storage ideas? Don’t we all! Our favorite idea is to keep your pack of fluffy friends in a larger soft basket. However, we know some kids love to see all their stuffed animals on display so in that case you have them “sit” up on a bookcase, which is also a great spot to store games and puzzles that have to be flat, or their collection of books.

Carmen recommends the Rue 8-Cube Kids Bookcase. “It can hold a lot for small spaces. Small pieces can either be stored in a bin or directly on the shelf to display.” It is great to find a toy storage solution like this that works for a variety of toy types. So if they outgrown one type of toy, you can easily still store their new interest.

When it comes to toys that can get messy like arts and craft supplies, we like finding a contained spot like bins with tops on them or even a wheeled cart that can be brought out and then wheeled back away when they are done crafting and creating.

When in doubt for toy storage, Brittany, our Design Lead, has the solution. “Bins, baskets and more bins! These are the ultimate go-to for easy clean up and categorized storage.”

toy storage ideas by room

Looking for kids' toy storage for a particular room? We’ve got you covered. For bedroom storage, the obvious spot is the closet. Take full advantage of any close space to store toys along with clothes, but be mindful of what you want stored away and out for everyday play.

For storage that’s in arm’s reach, Abbey, one of our Crate & Kids Design Leads, has a favorite for nurseries. “I love a sturdy but soft bin that can store any of the baby’s toys while keeping it looking tidy. Extra points for textured details that they can play with like the Dottie Macrame bins.” For older kids' rooms who may have larger furniture and less room, Brittany adjusts. “A kid's bedroom may only have a small area to fit a reading nook. Take advantage of vertical space with wall mounted shelves and utilize a floor bin or two if possible!”

Have toys in your living room? If you have kids, the answer is probably yes. And toy storage in the living room may be a bit harder. Since this is a shared space for both adults and kids, you want to keep it grown-up looking (and not trip over anything) while allowing them the freedom to play. It’s definitely a balance but can be done. “A living area may only offer a small spot for a piece of kids' storage. Choose thoughtfully, as these additions typically have to blend seamlessly with the rest of the home's design aesthetic.”

If your home has a playroom or basement, then you’ve got more room for toys—and more room to store them. Playroom toy storage ideas and basement toy storage ideas are pretty similar. In both spaces, you can use larger storage pieces to accommodate their toys since space isn’t an issue. Brittany recommends “using multiple modular storage pieces to create different zones for arts and crafts, homework, reading, etc.”

toy storage ideas by age

Storage solutions for toys also change with age. Toy storage for a baby’s items is really about convenience for the parents, since they are the ones pulling out the toys and offering them (and putting them away). At this stage, keep it easy for yourself with soft baskets and a bookshelf.

Toddler toy storage is a whole different story. As Abbey notes, “Toddlers are curious and always on the move! I love a funky storage ottoman that has storage space inside and can be pulled up to their play table as a quick seat. Double duty items are the key to a fun play space.” Keep things at their level so they can pull them out–and start learning to put them away.

Finally, kids will need specific storage that fits what they enjoy. “As kids’ interests grow, a bin wall shelf is a creative way to display their newest hobby and books. Add them above their desk or reading corner to save some floor space as well!”